Polaris RBS Radar high-visibility backpack

With the days still winter-short, there isn't much choice but to commute in the dark for most. Even with lights, anything to aid the visibility to other road users is a plus. A fluorescent bag is a wise addition, as it increases one's visible area. The Polaris RBS Radar Pack is a simple but effective offering.

The bag is a relatively basic backpack. A full length zip around three-quarters of the bag allows it to open like a clam shell, for easy access and packing of its 25l capacity. Inside the main void there is nothing more complicated than a netted laptop pouch. The place to stash and separate small items is the secondary clamshell on front of the main one. This area features three divisions and a zipped, phone sized pouch.

Twenty-five litres is enough for most short commutes, to fit your lunch and other bits and bobs. You'd struggle to get a full change of clothes in it but I imagine most looking for a bag like this have already considered the sizing for their needs.

A cushioned back with removable foam that gives the bag form makes the backpack comfortable to wear (you can put a hydration pack in place of the foam). There isn't much to the straps but for the capacity of the bag it shouldn't cause much problem. It isn't a terribly technical design but I found it suitable and inoffensive on my back for my short ride to work. Braces clip around the waist, with pocket and fluorescent material for a small amount of extra front visibility.

The primary selling point for the bag - high visibility - is well ticked. The majority of the bag is fluorescent lime-yellow colour, with reflective printed chevrons and text - creating a almost glowing bulge on the wearer's back. If you don't think this is enough, or your bike doesn't have a rear light, there is a clear pouch at the base of the bag to place a light; it's accessed from the main pocket.

While the light weight if the bag is great in terms of loading, the thin material makes it feel cheap. I also had issues with the durability of the single lined skin, with a small gash appearing after only a few uses with nothing of odd shape. It could have been a unfortunate clip somewhere but the material didn't inspire confidence in its longevity.

Conclusion

The suggested retail price of £49.99 is perhaps a little expensive for what is quite a simple bag. It can be found for around £40 however and when you consider that the popular bag covers by Respro cost £20 and upwards (the closest comparison I could find), the price is a bit more competitive.

It comes down to whether you want to add eflectivity to a bag that you already know and works for you or want a simple backpack too. If the latter than the RBS Radar is a good bag, with the option of adding more visibility through lighting (the lit Respro covers cost about £40).

Verdict

Great visibility, but light fabric makes it vulnerable to everyday nicks and scrapes.